I was listening to inspirational music while working around the house and heard a song using the words to Psalm 23 as part of the lyrics.  My mind began to wander as I thought about that classic psalm for a while.  I began thinking about the words of that psalm and wondering. I wondered how may of us as Christian, as followers of the Christ might honestly respond to that psalm at different points in our life. Would this be how you or I would respond?

• The Lord is my Shepherd; Or so we say, but do you and I follow Him all along the way?
• I shall not want; But there are many luxuries of this world that we chase after – things that we think we want.
• He makes me lie down in green pastures; Yet the grass on the other side of town looks a little greener to our eyes.
• He leads me beside the still waters; We want to ride the rapids, they are so much more fun!
• He restores my soul; Then like Israel of old you and I find ourselves empty again from the choices we make.
• He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake; But we pull away and run toward the world for our own version of happiness.
• Even thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; Such easy words to say, but sometimes we grow afraid and give-in to temptation or worldly pressure.
• For You are with me; He never leaves our side, but do we stay by His side?
• Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me; But sometimes you and I see them as restrictive as He uses them to keep us in line. Yet, there is comfort in knowing His deep love.
• You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; But their food looks better to the flesh and they look like they are having more fun. We find ourselves longing to eat with them not just in their presence.
• You anoint my head with oil. He says that You and I are His, but like the prophet Jonah, we shirk responsibility.
• My cup overflows; We are overwhelmed by His love, His mercy, and His grace, but neglect to give thanks.
• Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life; He keeps giving. His merciful loving-kindness is new every day. His love compels us to return to Him.
• I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever! By the grace He offered through the Christ, we come to Him in obedient faith thanking Him for the forgiveness through His Son.

I am just thinking out loud . . .

-Scott